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many ways, historic buildings define a community's character. So it is with the historic Tabernacle on Temple Square, which will be rededicated tomorrow after undergoing an extensive two-year renovation. All Utahns, regardless of religious persuasion, can take pride in the venerable edifice.
There's no other building quite like it in the world: such a unique design with its domed roof and acoustically sensitive interior. Considering when and where it was built, it remains an engineering marvel.
It was constructed, of course, in pioneer times to be used primarily for religious gatherings. For most of its existence, though, it has been much more than a house of worship. For a century and more, the great Tabernacle was Utah's most important gathering place. World leaders, including a dozen U.S. presidents spoke there. It housed major cultural events and became a stage for national touring groups. The Utah Symphony called it home for 33 years.
While the newer Conference Center across the street has replaced the Tabernacle as the venue for the LDS Church's worldwide conferences every six months, the Tabernacle will remain the home of the famed Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
KSL applauds the renovation, which will preserve for generations to come this magnificent edifice that has played such a significant and enduring role in the history of our state.
